Oyama (Kanagawa Prefecture) Complete Guide | Hiking, Sightseeing, Access, and Gourmet Information Summary
Oyama (Oyama), located in Isehara City, Kanagawa Prefecture, is a beautiful mountain with an elevation of 1,252 meters and has been cherished as a sacred mountain for worship since ancient times. With commanding views overlooking the Kanto Plain, historically significant shrines and temples, natural beauty throughout the seasons, and specialty cuisine, Oyama is a hiking spot that can be enjoyed by beginners and advanced hikers alike, and is also popular as a day-trip sightseeing destination.
This article comprehensively covers information you should know when visiting Oyama, from basic information about the mountain and hiking courses to sightseeing spots, access methods, and gourmet information.
Basic Information and History of Oyama
What is Oyama?
Oyama is part of the Tanzawa-Oyama Quasi-National Park that spans across Isehara City, Hadano City, and Atsugi City in Kanagawa Prefecture. Also known as “Afuri-yama (Rain-falling Mountain)”, it has long been the target of rain-praying worship. From the summit, you can see Sagami Bay, Enoshima, the Boso Peninsula, Mt. Fuji, and the Tanzawa mountains, offering spectacular views on clear days.
History of Oyama Worship
Oyama has been the target of mountain worship since ancient times, and was already known as a shugendo sacred site during the Nara period. During the Edo period, organizations called “Oyama-ko” (Oyama associations) spread throughout the Kanto region, and it is said that hundreds of thousands of pilgrims visited annually.
Among the common people, “Oyama mairi” (pilgrimages to Oyama) were actively conducted, serving as an important event for praying for bountiful harvests and prosperous businesses. Today, this faith continues to be passed down, and many pilgrims and hikers visit.
Geology and Nature of Oyama
Oyama is believed to have been formed by volcanic activity approximately one million years ago and is composed of andesite rocks. The mountain body is steep, with particularly harsh rock cliffs characterizing the northern slope.
Vegetation changes with elevation, and the lower slopes are covered with artificial forests of cedar and cypress, while natural forests of beech and Japanese oak spread from the middle elevations to the summit. You can enjoy beautiful scenery in each season: new green in spring, deep green in summer, autumn foliage in fall, and rime ice in winter.
Major Sightseeing Spots of Oyama
Oyama Afuri Shrine (Oyama Afuri Jinja)
Oyama Afuri Shrine is a shrine located on the mid-slope (approximately 700 meters elevation) and summit of Oyama, serving as the center of Oyama worship.
Lower Shrine (Main Shrine)
Located just a short walk from the Afuri Shrine Station of the Oyama Cable Car, the lower shrine is visited by many pilgrims. The shrine building was reconstructed during the Edo period and features beautifully carved decorative elements on the main hall. From the grounds, you can overlook the Sagami Plain, and on clear days, you can see all the way to Enoshima and Sagami Bay.
Goshuin (shrine stamps) and omamori (amulets) are distributed, with the “Lucky Bell” and “Misfortune Prevention Charm” being particularly popular. Additionally, there is a spring called Oyama Meisui (Oyama Famous Water) in the shrine grounds where visitors can freely collect water.
Main Shrine (Summit)
At the summit with an elevation of 1,252 meters stands the main shrine (inner shrine). This is a place that only hikers can visit, and the 360-degree panoramic view from the summit is spectacular. On clear days, you can see Mt. Fuji, Sagami Bay, the Boso Peninsula, and even the skyline of central Tokyo.
Oyama Temple (Oyama-dera)
Oyama Temple is a temple of the Shingon-shu Daigoji school, and is said to have been founded by the priest Roben during the Nara period. The principal image is an iron statue of Fudo Myoo (Acalanatha), designated as a national important cultural property.
The temple grounds contain many stone Buddha statues and stone pagodas, and particularly the Momiji Sando (Maple Leaf Approach) becomes a beautiful maple leaf tunnel in autumn, attracting many tourists. Each year in November, the “Oyama Momiji Matsuri” (Oyama Maple Leaf Festival) is held, with illumination events as well.
Koma Sando
The stone steps leading from Oyama Cable Station of the cable car to the lower shrine of Afuri Shrine is called Koma Sando. Along both sides of approximately 380 stone steps, souvenir shops and restaurants line the path.
“Koma” refers to the Oyama spinning top, which has been loved as a souvenir from Oyama since the Edo period. Shops still sell spinning tops today, and you can see traditional craftsmanship. Additionally, many shops offer the specialty “tofu cuisine” and “Oyama soba,” making it recommended to stop by before or after visiting the shrine or hiking.
Female Slope and Male Slope
For those not using the Oyama Cable Car to reach the lower shrine of Afuri Shrine, there are two hiking trails: the Female Slope and the Male Slope.
- Female Slope: A relatively gentle slope where you can reach the lower shrine in about 40 minutes. The stone steps are well-maintained, making it recommended for beginners and those without much physical stamina.
- Male Slope: A trail with steep stone steps where you can reach the lower shrine in about 30 minutes. It is a more direct route, recommended for those with confidence in their physical fitness.
Both trails are picturesque approaches surrounded by trees, and there are tea houses along the way.
Detailed Hiking Courses of Oyama
Oyama has multiple hiking courses that can be enjoyed by beginners through advanced hikers.
Front Approach Course (For Beginners)
Time Required: Approximately 4 hours round trip (approximately 3 hours when using cable car)
Distance: Approximately 3 kilometers one way (from Afuri Shrine lower shrine to summit)
Difficulty: Beginner to Intermediate
This is the most common and popular course. Take the Oyama Cable Car to the lower shrine of Afuri Shrine, then head toward the summit. You will climb along stone steps and trails with exposed tree roots, but the path is well-maintained with abundant trail markers.
Along the way are viewpoints such as “Fuji View Platform” and “Tengu’s Nose Thrust Rock,” where you can rest and enjoy the scenery. The section directly below the summit becomes steep stone steps, requiring a final push.
Hinata Yakushi Course (For Intermediate Hikers)
Time Required: Approximately 5 to 6 hours round trip
Distance: Approximately 5 kilometers one way
Difficulty: Intermediate
Starting from Hinata Yakushi bus stop, this course passes Hinata Mountain and Miharashi Platform to reach the Oyama summit. It is quieter than the front approach course and allows you to immerse yourself in nature. The views of Mt. Fuji and Sagami Bay from Miharashi Platform are wonderful and make an ideal rest point.
Minoke Course (For Intermediate Hikers)
Time Required: Approximately 5 hours round trip
Distance: Approximately 4.5 kilometers one way
Difficulty: Intermediate
This course starts from Minoke bus stop and also has a junction toward Yabitsu Pass. A relatively gentle ascent continues, allowing you to enjoy forest bathing while hiking. Mt. Fuji’s views open up from the “Itatsumi Ridge” along the way.
Yabitsu Pass Course (For Intermediate to Advanced Hikers)
Time Required: Approximately 4 to 5 hours round trip
Distance: Approximately 3.5 kilometers one way
Difficulty: Intermediate to Advanced
Starting from Yabitsu Pass bus stop, this course passes Itatsumi Ridge to reach the summit. The ridge trail offers excellent views, where you can enjoy the vista of Mt. Fuji and the Tanzawa mountains. However, there are some rocky sections and chain passages that require skill and physical fitness.
Ridge Traverse Course (For Advanced Hikers)
There are also ridge traverse courses extending from Oyama into the main Tanzawa ridge. Routes such as Oyama to Tono Peak or Oyama to Sanno Peak offer authentic mountain experiences. The time required exceeds 6 hours, and proper equipment and experience are necessary.
Precautions and Preparation for Oyama Hiking
Clothing and Equipment
Prepare the following equipment for Oyama hiking:
- Hiking boots or trekking shoes: Sneakers are also possible, but shoes with good grip are recommended due to slippery sections.
- Comfortable clothing: Materials with quick-drying properties are recommended. Prepare clothing that can be layered according to the season.
- Rain gear: Mountain weather changes quickly, so rain gear is essential.
- Water and energy snacks: Bring at least 500ml or more of water and food for energy replenishment.
- Maps or smartphone: Prepare a map app or paper map in case you get lost.
- Headlight: Bringing one provides peace of mind in case your descent is delayed.
Hiking Season and Best Season
Oyama can be hiked year-round, but each season offers different attractions:
- Spring (March to May): New green is beautiful, and the temperature is pleasant. Cherry blossoms and azaleas can also be enjoyed.
- Summer (June to August): Forest bathing in deep green can be enjoyed, but countermeasures against heat and insects are necessary.
- Autumn (September to November): Autumn foliage is spectacular and the most popular season. Mid-November is particularly when the foliage is at its peak.
- Winter (December to February): The air is clear and views are exceptional, but attention to snow and ice is necessary. Crampons may be required in some cases.
Safety Precautions
- Submit a hiking report: Submit to Kanagawa Prefecture’s hiking report system or at the hiking trail entrance.
- Caution about solo hiking: Hike with multiple people when possible, and if hiking alone, inform family or friends of your route.
- Time management: Plan with margins so you can descend before sunset.
- Check weather: Confirm the weather forecast in advance, and have the courage to cancel your hike if bad weather is predicted.
How to Access Oyama
Access by Train and Bus
When using the Odakyu Line (most common)
- Get off at Isehara Station on the Odakyu Line
- Board the Kanagawa Chuo Kotsu bus from bus stop #4 on the north exit
- Take the “Oyama Cable” bound bus for approximately 30 minutes to the final stop “Oyama Cable”
- Fare: 320 yen one way (as of 2024)
- From Oyama Cable bus stop, walk approximately 15 minutes to reach Oyama Cable Station
When heading to Yabitsu Pass
- Get off at Hadano Station on the Odakyu Line
- Board the Kanagawa Chuo Kotsu bus “Yabitsu Pass bound” from the north exit bus area (approximately 50 minutes)
- Get off at the final stop “Yabitsu Pass”
※The Yabitsu Pass bound bus has limited departures, so check the schedule in advance. It may only operate on weekends and holidays during certain periods.
Oyama Cable Car
Operating Hours:
- Weekdays: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (last descent 5:20 PM)
- Weekends and holidays: 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM (last descent 5:50 PM)
※Varies by season
Fares (as of 2024):
- Adults: Round trip 1,120 yen, One way 640 yen
- Children: Round trip 560 yen, One way 320 yen
Section:
Oyama Cable Station to Afuri Shrine Station (approximately 6 minutes)
Afuri Shrine Station to Oyama Temple Station (intermediate stop)
Trains run at approximately 20-minute intervals, and you can also disembark at Oyama Temple Station.
Car Access and Parking
Using the Tomei Expressway
- Approximately 30 minutes from “Atsugi IC” on the Tomei Expressway
- Approximately 25 minutes from “Hadano-Nakai IC” on the Tomei Expressway
Parking Information
There are multiple paid parking lots around Oyama:
- Municipal First Parking Lot: Approximately 84 spaces, 600 yen per day
- Municipal Second Parking Lot: Approximately 44 spaces, 600 yen per day
- Private parking lots: Multiple locations, fares approximately 500 yen to 1,000 yen
On weekends and during the fall foliage season, parking lots often fill up, so early arrival or use of public transportation is recommended.
Oyama Specialty Cuisine
Oyama Tofu Cuisine
When speaking of Oyama specialties, tofu cuisine comes to mind. Tofu made with the clear spring water of Oyama is exquisite, and many tofu restaurants line Koma Sando.
Representative Tofu Dishes:
- Tofu Kaiseki: A course where you can enjoy various tofu dishes including hot tofu, dengaku, and fried tofu
- Tofu Rice Bowl: Healthy rice bowl dishes using tofu
- Tofu Steak: Thick-sliced tofu that is grilled
- Agedashi: Similar texture to thick fried tofu, crispy outside and fluffy inside
Popular restaurants include “Togakubo,” “Ogawa-ya,” and “Tofu-dokoro Ogawa-ya.”
Oyama Soba
Soba is also a specialty of Oyama. Many restaurants serve hand-made soba using locally produced soba flour, making it ideal for a meal after hiking. You can choose between cold zaru soba or hot kake soba depending on the season and preference.
Oyama Spinning Top (Koma)
While not food, the Oyama spinning top is a traditional craft continuing from the Edo period and is a standard Oyama souvenir. Characterized by colorful patterns, the spinning top is beautiful when spun. It is also known as a good luck charm for ward off evil and good fortune.
Oyama Vegetables (Oyama-na)
Oyama vegetables are leafy vegetables cultivated around Oyama and have a taste similar to spinach. They are often served as boiled vegetables or stir-fries and can be enjoyed at local restaurants and traditional inns.
Sightseeing Spots Near Oyama
Hinata Yakushi
An ancient temple founded during the Nara period with a main hall designated as a national important cultural property. Many Buddhist statues, including the seated image of Yakushi Nyorai (Medicine Buddha), are enshrined, and pilgrims visit this quiet mountain temple.
Isehara City Comprehensive Sports Park
Located at the foot of Oyama, this vast park features sports facilities as well as grassy areas and play equipment, making it popular with families. It is also recommended to visit before or after Oyama hiking.
Nanasawa Hot Spring Area
Located approximately 20 minutes by car from Oyama, this hot spring area is known for its alkaline “beauty hot springs.” Day-use bathing facilities are well-equipped. It is ideal for relieving post-hike fatigue.
Events and Festivals of Oyama
Oyama Momiji Matsuri (November)
An autumn tradition held every mid-November. The autumn foliage around Oyama Temple is illuminated, creating a magical landscape. During the period, many tourists crowd the area.
Oyama Summer Mountain Opening (July)
A traditional event held every July 27 to pray for safety during the summer mountain season. A religious ceremony is held at Oyama Afuri Shrine, and you can also see a fire-walking ritual performed by yamabushi (mountain priests).
Oyama Lantern Procession (August)
A magical event held in late August where numerous lanterns light the approach. You can have the special experience of walking the approach at night.
Model Courses for Oyama Hiking
Day-trip Course for Beginners (Total time: Approximately 5 hours)
- 9:00 AM Take the bus from Isehara Station to Oyama Cable
- 10:00 AM Take the Oyama Cable Car to the Afuri Shrine lower shrine
- 10:30 AM Visit and rest at the Afuri Shrine lower shrine
- 11:00 AM Depart toward the summit via the front approach course
- 12:30 PM Arrive at the Oyama summit, have lunch and enjoy the view
- 1:30 PM Begin descent
- 2:30 PM Arrive at Afuri Shrine lower shrine
- 3:00 PM Have tofu cuisine lunch at Koma Sando
- 4:00 PM Descend by cable car
- 5:00 PM Arrive at Isehara Station
Loop Course for Intermediate Hikers (Total time: Approximately 7 hours)
- 8:00 AM Take the bus from Isehara Station to Oyama Cable
- 9:00 AM Reach the Afuri Shrine lower shrine via the female or male slope
- 10:00 AM Head toward the summit via the front approach course
- 11:30 AM Arrive at the summit, have lunch
- 12:30 PM Begin descent toward Yabitsu Pass area
- 2:00 PM Arrive at Yabitsu Pass
- 2:30 PM Take the bus to Hadano Station
- 3:30 PM Arrive at Hadano Station
Conclusion: Fully Enjoy the Charm of Oyama
Oyama in Kanagawa Prefecture is a sacred mountain with mountain worship that can be reached from central Tokyo on a day trip, with diverse hiking courses that can be enjoyed by beginners and advanced hikers alike. Beyond hiking, it offers abundant attractions including historically significant shrines and temples such as Oyama Afuri Shrine and Oyama Temple, beautiful natural scenery, and specialty tofu cuisine.
Oyama, which changes its appearance with the seasons, offers new discoveries no matter how many times you visit. You can enjoy different beauty in each season: the new green of spring, the deep green of summer, the autumn foliage of fall, and the snowy landscape of winter.
If you are a beginner, first try the front approach course using the cable car, and gradually challenge other courses. Experienced hikers can enjoy more authentic mountain experiences by combining ridge traverse courses with other Tanzawa mountains.
When hiking Oyama, prioritize safety and embark on the hike with thorough preparation and planning. After hiking, enjoy delicious tofu cuisine at Koma Sando and take time to experience the history and culture of Oyama, making for a more fulfilling day.
Enjoy wonderful hiking experiences and sightseeing at Oyama, a prestigious mountain of Kanagawa Prefecture.
